Entrepreneur strikes a chord with award

A North East businesswoman has been recognised for her groundbreaking software platform, designed to transform the live events industry.

Sunderland entrepreneur Victoria Smith, founder of Gig Lab and finance director at Ghostwriter Consultancy & Events, has been named one of Innovate UK’s ‘Women in Innovation Award’ winners, securing a £75,000 grant and expert business coaching to help scale her venture.

Having started her career aged 16 as a box office assistant at Sunderland Empire theatre and with a background in live events, including roles at Live Nation, MAMA and Academy Music Group, Victoria developed Gig Lab to help tackle challenges faced by independent venues.

The platform, which is being developed locally by the team at Gateshead software company Layers Studio, streamlines event planning and logistics, giving promoters more time to focus on delivering unforgettable experiences for audiences.

Victoria said: “I’m incredibly honoured to win the Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Award and humbled to share my recognition alongside such incredible women developing scientific and medical innovations.

“This award isn’t just about me; it’s about the incredible team at Ghostwriter Consultancy & Events, whose expertise and passion have been the foundation of everything we do. 

“The timing of this award feels especially significant with Sunderland recently being named a Music City, a recognition that highlights the city’s vibrant culture and its commitment to supporting the creative industries. 

“Being part of this vibrant community, in a city that’s fully embracing its identity as a Music City, has been transformative for Ghostwriter. 

“Sunderland’s focus on championing creativity and fostering collaboration has created the perfect environment for innovation to thrive.”

Victoria is one of 50 trailblazing women selected from 1,452 applicants in a competition that awarded a total of £3.75 million in funding.

Emily Nott, head of equality, diversity and inclusion at Innovate UK, added: “Innovate UK’s Women in Innovation Awards spotlight the UK’s most groundbreaking women entrepreneurs. 

“This year’s winners have shown incredible leadership and creativity.

“We’re thrilled to support them in scaling their businesses and inspiring the next wave of women innovators. 

“Their success stories will undoubtedly pave the way for more women to enter and thrive in the world of innovation.”

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